Aging is a complex process which results in functional and aesthetic changes in the skin. Extend of ageing is influenced by several external and internal factors. External factors include sunlight, cigarette smoke,pollution,heat,dietary habits,stress etc .
Skin wrinkles are one of the most cosmetically concerning signs of aging for women, and improvements in the visual effect of wrinkles become a matter of concern that has an impact on the quality of life.
HOW TO REDUCE WRINKLES - WHAT YOU CAN DO
Avoid the sun - It is the No.1 cause of wrinkles, even more important than heredity. Avoid sunexposure especially between 10 am to 4 pm, use protective clothing- cotton fabrics provide better protection .
Wear sunscreen - Regular use of sunscreen is recommended to prevent wrinkles and skin cancers. Sunscreen used must be appropriate for the type of skin to be protected.To be effective sunscreen has to be applied 20 min before sun exposure and must be reapplied after 3to 4 hrs. Now newer sunscreens have been developed which are cosmetically elegant and providing lasting protection.
Get adequate sleep - Proper sleep will help the production of hormones which helps to maintain the thickness and elasticity of skin, and lessening the chance of wrinkles. Minimum 7 hrs of quality sleep is recommended .
Sleep on your back - Sleeping in certain positions night after night leads to sleep lines- wrinkles that become etched into the surface of the skin and don’t disappear once you are up. Sleeping on your side increases wrinkles on cheeks and chin. To reduce wrinkle formation sleep on your back.
Use moisturizer - Skin that is moisturized looks far better, so that lines and creases are far less noticeable.
Don’t overwash your face - Unless your soap contains moisturizers, use cleanser instead. Washing the face too often strips skin of its natural protective barrier, making your skin more prone to damage.
Regular exercise and proper diet - A low carbohydrate diet, esp refined carhohydrates ( bread, biscuits, cakes,wheat, fruit juices etc)and high in proteins and good fats is recommended for general health. Take more of vegetables and low sugar fruits. This will also protect from diabetes and other illnesses which can result in premature aging. Regular exercise –at least 20 min daily, five days / week is recommended..
ANTIAGING TREATMENTS
Now we have the option of reducing the effects of skin aging using a range of antiaging treatments which are scientifically proven and safe on Indian skin. For day to day use many cosmeceuticals are available which contain ingredients like peptides which offsets the signs of aging by reducing wrinkle formation .
Chemical peels and Microdermabrasion are useful for fine wrinkles, irregular pigmentation and for improving the texture of skin.
Laser systems are available now, which can treat fine wrinkles, rejuvenates skin, reduces sagging and tightens skin by producing more collagen.
Botulinum toxin injection(popularly known as Botox )can be used for the treatment of crow’s feet, forehead furrows etc .it causes relaxation of facial muscles thus preventing dynamic wrinkles from becoming permanent.
For already established wrinkles Dermal fillers can be used ,which are injected into the skin to help fill in facial wrinkles, plumps up the skin, restoring a smoother appearance.
Thread lift is another technique used to lift deep nasal folds, sagging eyes, neck etc, without incisions,sutures or scars.
Radiofrequency skin tightening can be done in combination with other treatments to tighten skin and reduce sagging.